Each state decides which vaccines are required for your child’s enrollment and attendance at a school in that state. These laws often apply not only to children attending public schools but also to those attending private schools and day care facilities.

All states provide medical exemptions, and some state laws also offer exemptions for religious or philosophical reasons. State laws also establish mechanisms for enforcement of school vaccination requirements and exemptions.

• Keep track of your child’s vaccine record, as schools and childcare facilities in your state may require proof of vaccination.

• Talk to a staff member to learn what vaccines the school or childcare facility requires. They will be able to provide you with specific information about their requirements.

• If you would like to know your state’s immunization requirements, contact your state’s immunization program or state health department.

In Massachusetts (MA), state law requires children to be immunized against certain diseases as a condition for enrollment and attendance in both public and private schools, as well as childcare facilities. These immunizations typically include vaccines for diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, hepatitis B, and varicella (chickenpox), among others. Massachusetts allows for medical exemptions to these requirements if a physician provides documentation that a vaccine is medically contraindicated for a child. Additionally, the state permits exemptions for religious beliefs; however, philosophical exemptions are not allowed. Parents or guardians must provide schools and childcare facilities with their child's immunization records as proof of vaccination. Enforcement of these requirements is typically managed by the school or childcare facility in coordination with state health authorities. To understand the specific immunization requirements in Massachusetts, parents should contact the school or childcare facility their child will attend or reach out to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Immunization Division.